“Big Trees Retreat,” Boasts 5BR/2.5BA, Sleeps-16. 2-level living. Dog friendly!
Welcome to the secluded and serene “Amongst The Trees. ” retreat. Boasts 5 BR, 2.5 BA, dual-living rooms and a fully equipped kitchen highlights two large wrap-around bars for entertaining, the centerpiece to a large open floor plan for all guests to relax and revisit the importance of quality time. Host your family, extended family and friends, and discover the hidden gems that Calaveras has to offer come winter or summer.
This secluded floor to ceiling A frame custom build was inspired and built by our father Bob. He had a vision of a family retreat with not only his single family in mind, but spacious enough for extended family and friends to all enjoy. Come! savor a cup of coffee on the furnished wrap-around deck with the sound of mountain air moving through the pines above. Or sip a glass of wine beside one of 2 wood-burning fireplaces. Soak in the serene and uninhabited forest of Big Trees that will captivate all the pleasures of mountain living and ignite the curiosity of exploration just steps from the front door. At just above 5,000 feet elevation you can explore the unlimited outdoors come winter or summer. Ski and snowboard Bear Valley Resort, fish the lakes of Alpine and White Pines, or the rivers from North Fork to South Fork and beyond. Hike the Big Trees State Park’s many scenic trails. Wine taste and shop in the charming town of Murphy’s, or see the secret caverns at Mercer or Moaning Caverns. Visit Historic Columbia State Park and take old time photos, or pan for gold. Take part in swimming, tennis, frisbee golf, and BBQ’s at Big Trees rec-center. After you explore in the fresh mountain air, retreat to this oasis with family and friends. “Big Trees Retreat” offers you a passport to the many hidden gems from the mountain tops of Alpine, to the foothills of the sierras, among all the mysteries of Stanislaus Forrest’s.
Accommodations Level 1: “Kids Getaway,” Sleeps 8, 3 bunk beds,1 single bed with trundle “Calaveras Room,” Sleeps 2, Queen Bed
Living Room: Entertainment center, Wood burning fireplace, Foosball table, Library, Games, DVD’s, Full Bath and ½ Bath
Laundry: Washer, Dryer
Entry-way/Mudroom: Storage and pet needs
Level 2: Wrap-around deck, Furnished, Gas grill
Open Floor plan: Fully equipped kitchen, Large dining table, 2 wrap-around bars, Wood burning fireplace, Entertainment center, Puzzles
“Alpine Room,” Cal King Bed, Sleeps 2 “Bear Valley Room,” Cal King bed, Sleeps 2 “Murphy’s Room,” Queen bed, Sleeps 2
Full Bath Amenities: Bathtub, Shower, Hair dryer, Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, Make-up remover, Magnifying mirror, Towels, hand towels, washcloths
Bedrooms: Fresh bed sheets and linens, Extra pillows and blankets, Luggage racks, Hangers, Portable Fans
Laundry: Free washer - In unit, Free dryer - In unit, Iron and ironing board, Detergent, dryer sheets, essential cleaning supplies
Entertainment: 50” TV (Level 1/Level 2), Smart TV, Netflix and Amazon login apps, DVD Players, HDMI cables (to connect your own device), Xfinity high speed internet for streaming devices, Books, DVD’s, Games, Puzzles
Family: Pack N play/Travel crib, High chair, Children’s dinnerware Heating and Cooling: 2 Indoor Fireplace: wood-burning, Ceiling fan, Portable fans, Room heaters
Home Safety: Security cameras on property To look out for snow levels and deliveries, and to protect property, there are two exterior security cameras Smoke alarm Carbon monoxide alarm Fire extinguishers First aid kit Flashlights/LED candles
Kitchen and dining: Large Kitchen Refrigerator and freezer Beverage refrigerator Microwave Gas Stove Gas Oven Dishwasher Fully equipped cookware - Pots, pans, cooking utensils, etc. Dishes and silverware - Plates, bowls, cups, etc. Cooking basics - Salt, pepper, olive oil, balsamic Coffee maker - Sugar, tea, filters French press Hot water kettle Toaster Blender Wine glasses Popcorn maker Crockpot Baking sheets, cake pans, muffin tins Cutting boards Tupperware Barbecue utensils Tablecloths and placemats Dish towels Hot pads Paper towels, dish soap, hand soap, Essential cleaning supplies
Location Features: Private entrance - Separate street or building entrance
Outdoor: Front porch Private wrap-around deck BBQ grill Snow Sleds and shovels
Parking and facilities: Free parking on premises
Services: Dogs allowed - Assistance animals are always allowed Front porch lockbox Self check-in Some onsite-assistance available
Destinations:
Big Trees Village Recreation Center www.bigtreesvillage.org 1211 Sierra Parkway Camp Connell, CA 95223 8 min and 1.8 miles
Big Trees Village Recreation Center is the social HUB of Big Trees Village, a neighborhood association located in the heart of Camp Connell. BTVRC has been one of our #1 summer family vacation destinations. We have been dedicated members of this association since the beginning. As a guest of “Big Trees Retreat,” you will have full access to this center. Located only 1.8 miles from “Big Trees Retreat,” it offers swimming pools, tennis, bocce, frisbee golf, basketball, volleyball, horseshoes, shuffleboard, children’s playground, a multi-purpose field, and a large (reservable) BBQ area. Much, much, more! Note: Swimming is open Memorial Day to Labor Day
Bear Valley:
Bear Valley is a year round destination with an emerging center for family outdoor adventures–rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, backpacking, and disc-golfing in the summer, and cross country and downhill skiing, snowboarding, sledding, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing in the winter.
Bear Valley Mountain Resort www.bearvalley.com 2280 CA-207, Bear Valley, CA 95223 22 miles and 31 minutes
Bear Valley Mountain Resort is one of California’s finest mid-sized snow sport destinations with nine ski lifts accessing beginner through expert terrain. Ski and snowboard, rent gear and book lessons.
Lake Alpine CA-4 W/Ebbetts Pass Scenic Byway 20.8 miles and 29 minutes
Lake Alpine is a year round destination with swimming, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and hiking during the summer months and cross country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling in the winter. Discover the stunning beauty of Lake Alpine!
Calaveras Big Trees State Park www.parks.ca.gov 1170 CA-4, Arnold, CA 95223 4.9 miles and 8 minutes
Calaveras Big Trees State Park is home to the North Grove, the pristine South Grove, the raging North Fork of the Stanislaus River, and tranquil Beaver Creek. Open year-round, the park offers picnic areas, miles of hiking and biking trails, and a visitor center. You’ll discover over 1,000 mature giant sequoias between the North and South Grove, the largest in the world and believed to live as long as 2,000 years.
White Pines www.gocalaveras.com CA-4 E/Ebbetts Pass Scenic Byway 15 min and 8.5 miles
Locals favorite, White Pines Lake is situated along the Ebbetts Pass National Scenic Byway. It’s a small, picturesque high country lake with beaches, picnic tables, and children’s playground. Thai lake can be the center of your entire day, when combined with fishing or swimming, kayaking or paddle-boarding.
Murphy's
Murphy’s is a must see destination! With its nearly two-dozen wine tasting rooms all within strolling distance along charming Main Street, its multiple restaurants, boutique shopping, historic architecture, and much more! The friendly, laid-back culture in town is a significant contributor to Murphy’s appeal. Murphy’s has been a staple destination for our family and continues to be.
Main Street Wineries
You’ll find welcoming wine makers or vineyard owners ready to answer all of your wine questions and help you find your favorite varietal from our innovative wine scene. Best of all, Murphy’s is a snob-free zone, with a friendly vibe you’ll find delightful!
Columbia State Historic Park www.parks.ca.gov 11255 Jackson Street Columbia, CA 94296 47 min and 32.9 miles
Travel back in time to a Gold Rush Town! Columbia State Historic Park is the ideal getaway for great family fun and relaxation. The park is an accrual town that has been preserved with restaurants, shops, two hotels and a theater with live performances. Visitors can taste hand-dipped chocolates, superior cups of coffee, or savor fine dining, or purchase picnic provisions. Take a stagecoach ride and old time photo, pan for gold, make candles or purchase Columbia made soap and more!
Columbia State Historic Park is just another staple destination!
Stanislaus River www.stanislausrive.com Fishing on the Stanislaus River is increasingly popular due to the beautiful scenery, variety of fish species, as well as the sheer number of fish that can be found in the river. Each section of the river has its own unique variety of fish as well as a set of fishing regulations, so any angler thinking of tackle-in the Stanislaus should educate themselves before heading out.
Explore the fishing diversity at North Fork, South Fork, and Middle Fork of the Stanislaus River. It has been heavily fished by our families over the years.
Other popular fishing locations on the Stanislaus River: Goodwin Canyon Knights Ferry Orange Blossom to Oakdale
These are just a few of our favorite destinations. You'll be provided with a Guest Guide upon checking in that includes all the information and more to help you explore!
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
Add dates for prices
Have a question?
AI iconBetaBeta
Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.
Similar properties
Updated Cabin-AC-game room- room for 2 families-Dogs Welcome
Arnold
Updated Cabin-AC-game room- room for 2 families-Dogs Welcome
Pets allowed: dogs less than 50 lbs per pet (limit 2 pets total)
default
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
About the neighborhood
Arnold
Arnold is home to this cabin. Whale Rock and Chief William Fuller Monument are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Calaveras Big Trees State Park and Calaveras South Grove Nature Preserve. Traveling with kids? Consider Leland Meadows, or check out an event or a game at Ironstone Amphitheatre. Spend some time exploring the area's activities, including golfing.
Calaveras Big Trees State Park - 5 min drive - 6.1 km
Arnold Rim Trail - 14 min drive - 14.7 km
Sequoia Woods Country Club and Golf Course - 16 min drive - 16.1 km
Sierra Nevada Logging Museum - 16 min drive - 17.2 km
White Pines Lake - 16 min drive - 17.2 km
Getting around
Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF) - 159 min drive
Restaurants
The Lube Room Saloon - 5 min drive
Camp Connell General Store - 4 min drive
Snack Shack - 10 min drive
Fairway View Lounge - 14 min drive
The Restaurant - 14 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is “Big Trees Retreat,” Boasts 5BR/2.5BA, Sleeps-16. 2-level living. Dog friendly! pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 50 lbs per pet.
How much does it cost to stay at “Big Trees Retreat,” Boasts 5BR/2.5BA, Sleeps-16. 2-level living. Dog friendly!?
As of May 8, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at “Big Trees Retreat,” Boasts 5BR/2.5BA, Sleeps-16. 2-level living. Dog friendly! on Jun 30, 2026 start from $541, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
What time is check-in at “Big Trees Retreat,” Boasts 5BR/2.5BA, Sleeps-16. 2-level living. Dog friendly!?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at “Big Trees Retreat,” Boasts 5BR/2.5BA, Sleeps-16. 2-level living. Dog friendly!?
Check-out is at 11:00 AM.
Where is “Big Trees Retreat,” Boasts 5BR/2.5BA, Sleeps-16. 2-level living. Dog friendly! located?
Located in Arnold, this family-friendly cabin is 3 mi (4.8 km) from Calaveras Big Trees State Park, and within 9 mi (15 km) of Arnold Rim Trail and White Pines Lake. Sequoia Woods Country Club and Golf Course and Sierra Nevada Logging Museum are also within 9 mi (15 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Everything was clean, comfortable, plenty of towels, etc. We loved the puzzle selection and puzzle table. We were here in Summer, but think that a winter stay would be perfect, too. Nice layout to the home. We will definitely be considering staying here next year.
Lisa J.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 24, 2024
We are so happy Lisa found us and enjoyed her stay. She was a pleasure to host. Lisa and guests were very respectful of our space and had great communication. We hope to host her again in the future!
This cabin is awesome. Plenty of room for family/friends and kids. Lots of rooms and space to either be with everybody or if you need your own space to relax. Great property around the cabin to explore the forest. We wish we could call this our own, however we are very glad the owners make this available. We look forward to booking here again.
Brice A.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 14, 2025
It was a pleasure hosting Brice and his family. They were very respectful of the space and left things nice and tidy. We loved getting feedback on their experience and would love to host Brice and family again!
Such a great place. Love the spacious cabin, well-stocked kitchen and plenty of games (board games, card games, jigsaw puzzles etc) and a foosball table! A nice feature is that it also has a kids room with bunk beds (sleeps 7-8 kids). The kids really enjoyed having their own room. Plenty of firewood too, for the 2 fireplaces (1 on each floor) to heat up the cabin. There is also a portable electric heater for each bedrooms. Host is also really responsive about queries. The housekeeper even came at night of our check-in to help us with some items like dishwasher and fire starter. Great service for sure!
We stayed with two other families for a total of 6 adults and 6 kids 10 and under. The house was perfect. We loved having large communal spaces with the kitchen/dining area with plenty of seating and appreciated it being connected to the living area. The kids enjoyed the game room and had so much fun in the huge bunk room. With so many bunks there was no battle for top or bottom bunks. We loved the history of the home and could feel the group/family dynamic it was built to foster. Location wise it’s a bit further from town but we loved being a bit closer to the snow and were lucky to enjoy some snow that had just fallen on the property before our arrival. I personally appreciate the details of guides, labels, and extras (like the perfectly stocked kitchen, extra blankets, and supplies for fun) and can’t imagine what else could be needed for a perfect getaway.